When the temperatures cool and the leaves start changing colors, it’s time to celebrate the season. The area in and around Rochester features a range of ways to enjoy the fall. From annual festivals to hikes outdoors and more, our area really has it all.
Not sure where to start? Tom Kadlec Kia put together this list of the top 10 best fall activities you can enjoy near Rochester.
Sekapp’s Orchard
You can’t go wrong by planning an autumn visit to a Rochester mainstay. Sekapp’s Orchard has been a fixture in the community since 1962, and this popular spot is open for apple picking in the fall. In addition to apples, they sell honey, produce, and more, so you can stock up on delicious seasonal groceries as well. Sekapp’s Orchard also offers wagon rides, not to mention fall activities like a straw bale maze and corn maze when the harvest season is at its peak. Look for Pumpkinland for tons of fall fun!
Northwoods Orchard
Can’t get enough of apple picking once the leaves start changing colors? You’re not alone. Fortunately, the area around Rochester has plenty of ways for you to enjoy this autumn activity. Located just a short drive from Rochester, Northwoods Orchard is yet another example. Enjoy the fall scenery around you, and treat the kids to a corn maze, petting zoo, and tractor rides. Pro-tip: Make sure you get some apple cider doughnuts while you’re there.
Quarry Hill Nature Center
Rochester is also home to the Quarry Hill Nature Center, which features fun events throughout the year. The Quarry Hill Fall Festival offers an array of activities perfect for the cooler temperatures. From nature games to eco-friendly crafts, rock climbing to pumpkin decorating, there’s something for every member of your family at this local spot. No matter when you pay the Quarry Hill Nature Center a visit, you can look forward to things like hiking, bird-watching, and even fossil hunting to fill your day.
Harvest Festival
You might know this Rochester event as “Fall Fest.” Though it has a new name, you can expect Rochester’s Harvest Festival to deliver the same amount of fun! This event takes place in October in downtown Rochester, where you can enjoy the crisp fall air while you take in the changing leaves and bright pumpkins surrounding the scene. This free event is perfect for visitors of all ages, so you can head there with friends or make it a fun family outing.
Haunted Rochester Trolley Tours
If you’re like many people, the words “fall” and “Halloween” are close to synonymous for you. So, get into the Halloween spirit by hopping on a Haunted Rochester Trolley Tour. You’ll get to see Rochester’s most historic and haunted spooky spots up close. The eerie activity is available for groups of 20 to 30 people to book through November, offering a great way to explore local spots with family and friends who love the Halloween season just as much as you do.
Rochester Hot Cider Hustle Half Marathon and 5K
The annual Rochester Hot Cider Hustle Half Marathon and 5K puts a fun twist on running. Hot apple cider and caramel apples await you at the finish line of this October event. Timed races and fun runs are both available, so you can easily find a way to get in on the action at this yearly Rochester tradition.
Bear Creek Trail
Located close to Rochester, Bear Creek Trail is the ideal place to have on your list when you want to spend an autumn day in nature. This 5.7-mile out and back trail is good for all skill levels, so it’s a great place to visit if you want to go for a run, leisurely walk, or road bike ride. Bear Creek Trail is the place to go to take in nature either on your own or with a group. The trail features a river and makes an amazing backdrop for a walk among some beautiful changing foliage.
Root River State Trail
If you’re looking for another way to spend a day outdoors without traveling far from Rochester, you’ll want to add the Root River State Trail to your list of autumn plans. This trail offers a paved path that’s easy to hike, taking you along the Root River for some gorgeous fall foliage views. The state trail spans many miles, and it’s great whether you’re in the mood for walking, running, or biking. No matter how you spend the day, you’ll love witnessing the trees turning to red and gold hues.
Great River Bluffs State Park
Visiting Great River Bluffs State Park, located not far from Rochester in Winona, is another outdoor activity you’ll want to pencil into your calendar this fall. Not only will you have some amazing views while you drive to the park, but you’ll also get to look forward to an array of picturesque places once you arrive. After all, Great River Bluffs State Park is nestled high on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, so you can find various scenic overlooks accessible no matter your hiking abilities. You can even camp if you want to turn your visit into a longer trip.
Highway 61
Maybe you’d prefer to check out fall’s dazzling display of colors solely from your car. Minnesota has you covered for those adventures, too. Just take a drive along Highway 61, one of the most scenic drives you can find through the southeast part of our home state. You’ll drive alongside the Mississippi River’s shore, taking in some truly breathtaking views as you go. You’ll find plenty of places to grab a bite to eat along the way — or just step out to stretch your legs and appreciate the fall scenery.
That concludes Tom Kadlec Kia’s list of the top 10 activities in and around Rochester you’ll want to plan to enjoy this fall. Did we miss your favorite autumn activity in the area? If we skipped something Rochester locals and visitors alike shouldn’t miss, let us know! We’d love to add your recommendation to our list.
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